Thursday, May 3, 2018

Exploring other cultures

the sand-fly bites have just started to heal. They ceased being itchy. This is a good thing.

When I first asked Julie Groff what was the most difficult about her move to Belize. She said sandflies. After spending an extra 4 days in Stann Creek District, a week and a day in total, I can understand where she is coming from. I also have less patience with bug bites than she does. They got itchy and I couldn't stop scratching them.  They got bloody and swollen.

We stayed longer in Stann Creek? Why yes we did. Tim Groff suggested that since his parents would be in Guatemala, we could make use of their house for a few days. We were able to go to church with them, hike, enjoy Hopkins, and shop in Spanish Lookout on the way home.


One of the most interesting things we did last wednesday was have two cultural experiences. Tim had a friend cook us a traditional Garifuna meal.

As we pulled up, he was mashing the Hudut.  It was neat to see him in action!







Nathanael and the kids also tried their hand at it.  Mashing required strength and skill. We were told a hungry Garifuna could make it in less than 15 min!

The children were given rice and beans.  

Nathanael, Tim and I ate hudut. Here is a video of me trying it: 



It was a lovely meal with just as lovely people. It was wonderful learning a little about Garifuna culture.  

That evening we spent time with our Nigerian friends. It was another cultural experience.  The food was wonderful as was the company. We learned a little about Nigerian culture. Through our eyes, they appeared even more "warm culture" than Belizeans. I went home with a full satisfied stomac and heart.  

What a blessing it is to be on this journey in Belize!  

If you would like to learn more about the Garifuna people of Belize here's a website  you can visit

I am hoping to finish the newsletter and have it to you in the next two weeks.  Hope you have a great day
Spring


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